Some wedding days are all about the tradition. Others are about throwing the rule book out of the window and doing exactly what feels right. Hannah and Dante’s celebration at Chateau le Mas de Montet in the Dordogne was firmly in the second camp. There was no ceremony, no bridesmaids or groomsmen, no set timetable to stick to. Instead, they filled their day with sunshine, lawn games, food, wine, and the company of their favourite people — all while Hannah wore a wedding dress she had made herself.

A Warm Welcome the Night Before

The festivities began the evening before with a relaxed welcome buffet at the chateau. Long tables were set up, platters of food appeared as quickly as they disappeared, and wine bottles lined the table in that casual, generous way only France seems to manage. It was the perfect way for guests to settle in, catch up, and get to know one another before the main celebration.

A Slow Start to the Wedding Day

Hannah and Dante wanted their wedding day to feel like a holiday. With no ceremony to prepare for, the morning was spent exactly as they wanted — cooling off in the pool, laughing with friends, and playing lawn games on the grass. The pace was slow, the mood light. By the time they began getting ready in the afternoon, the whole day already felt like an extended party.

The Homemade Wedding Dress

There’s something special about wearing a wedding dress that’s been made with your own hands. Hannah designed and stitched her dress herself, creating a one-of-a-kind gown that fit her style and personality perfectly. It was simple yet elegant, flowing and comfortable enough to move easily from the terrace to the dining room and onto the dance floor. Dante looked equally relaxed but sharp in a light blue suit that suited the summer setting.

Vin d’Honneur on the Terrace

The drinks reception — or vin d’honneur — was held on the chateau’s terrace, with guests enjoying champagne and canapés in the late afternoon sun. Glasses clinked, conversations carried, speeches were given, and the view over the gardens provided a postcard-perfect backdrop. This was a chance for everyone to soak in the surroundings and enjoy that timeless French chateau atmosphere.

Dinner With a Twist

Dinner was a real highlight. Instead of simply serving wine with each course, Hannah and Dante turned it into something interactive. Before each course was served, a friend would stand and introduce the wine — explaining where it was from, its flavour notes, and why it had been chosen. It turned the meal into an experience, with every glass poured becoming part of the story. The food itself was classic French fare, beautifully prepared and paired perfectly with the wines. They had also handwritten letters to every single guest (!!) which made for beautiful images and emotional moments.

Dancing Into the Night

After dinner, the party moved to the dance floor. Music filled the chateau and guests danced late into the night. The combination of good food, flowing wine, and the freedom of a no-rules wedding meant the energy stayed high right to the end.

Doing a Wedding Your Way

Hannah and Dante’s wedding was proof that you don’t need to follow tradition for the day to feel meaningful. With no formal ceremony or wedding party, they focused on the things that mattered to them — time with loved ones, incredible food and wine, and a setting that felt like home.